HBO just released 8 new photos from the first episode of 'Game of Thrones' season 7

"Game of Thrones" season seven premieres Sunday, July 16, and HBO is ramping up excitement as the evening draws ever closer. Now they've released a look at what's to come in the first hour of the new season. The official description for the episode, titled "Dragonstone," is: "Jon (Kit Harington) organizes the defense of the North. Cersei (Lena Headey) tries to even the odds. Daenerys (Emilia Clarke) comes home."

Keep reading for a peek at 8 new photos from the "Game of Thrones" season seven premiere.

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We see Cersei, glass of wine in hand (as usual) standing on a huge map of Westeros.

Lena Heady as Cersei Lannister.
Helen Sloan/HBO

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HBO gave us a bigger view of the map, which contains tons of detail.

This is an impressive project.
Helen Sloan/HBO

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Next we see another view of Daenerys and Grey Worm arriving at Dragonstone — an ancient Targaryen stronghold previously occupied by Stannis Baratheon.

Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen.
Helen Sloan/HBO

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We get a better look at the throne inside Dragonstone. This is where Daenerys will begin her conquest of Westeros.

The throne room is impressive.
Helen Sloan/HBO

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We also finally have a closer look at Meera Reed. What's notable about this photo is the men in black behind her — clearly Meera and Bran will be at Castle Black in the premiere.

Ellie Kendrick as Meera Reed.
Helen Sloan/HBO

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This show of Dolorous Edd and the Night's Watch brothers is likely them greeting Bran and Meera (which is bound to be a big surprise to them).

Bran will likely tell them what happened to Benjen, which is something the Night's Watch has wondered since season one.
Helen Sloan/HBO

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In Winterfell, Brienne of Tarth and Podrick Payne are sparring. This is probably a continuation of Pod's training to get better at fighting.

Gwendoline Christie plays Brienne.
Helen Sloan/HBO

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And last but not least, everyone's favorite northern leader Lyanna Mormont will be featured in the episode. We can't wait to hear whatever speech she gives.